Astigmatism results from the abnormal structure of the eye. In people with this condition, the lens or cornea has been distorted by stretching, so they cannot be symmetrical to the axis of the eye.
Irregularity is indicated by not keeping the right proportions of width to height of all elements in the eye. This contributes to the blurring and lack of sharpness of the image seen.
Astigmatism – characteristics
Astigmatism is diagnosed in people complaining about problems with free reading, uninterrupted squinting, problems with seeing objects not only in the distance, but also close ones. Blurring of the contours of the seen people or objects is characteristic. Electronic eye mapping allows you to assess the phase of changes that contributed to the formation of astigmatism.
Sources of astigmatism
As we mentioned at the beginning, astigmatism has its source in the wrong structure of the eye. In people with astigmatism, the eye resembles an elongated oval, which is why the cornea is wider than it is high. Asymmetry in the eye leads to focusing light in two axes instead of one, namely on the retina. Sometimes the basis is genetic prerequisites and damage to the lens or cornea of the eye, which derive, for example, from a medical condition.
Treatment
Like other vision defects, astigmatism is treated by interfering with the course of light rays that are curved and scattered on the retina. Thanks to the therapy, the rays are focused on one plane. The treatment is so simple that it is enough to choose the right glasses or contact lenses, in addition, you can consult the possibility of laser correction, the so-called astigmatic keratotomy. This procedure allows you to restore normal vision by removing some parts of the eye tissue. As a result of karatotemia, the eye regains symmetry, and with it sharp vision. A positive effect on the condition of vision is noticed after just one treatment. Light beam therapy may be a good solution for people who do not like wearing contact lenses or glasses.
Can you prevent astigmatism?
The answer to this question is not easy. Prophylactic eye care and optimal hydration, as well as consultation with an ophthalmologist right at the beginning of the deterioration of visual acuity, but also our lifestyle, have an exorbitant impact on the health of our eyes. The risk of astigmatism increases in people with high blood pressure and diabetes. Regardless of whether all these factors lead to the pathological shape of the retina, one thing is certain, we should protect it from harmful external factors.